A Pap test is used to check women for cervical cancer. Years ago, women did such a check-up at every annual visit, but today the Pap test has improved and we know that cervical cancer takes many years to develop.
Women should start having a Pap test at the age of 21. Between the ages of 21-29, women whose tests are normal should repeat it every three years.
Women aged 30 and over, along with the Pap test, should also get tested for human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the cause of cervical cancer. Women under 30 are not tested for the virus because 80 percent of sexually active women will have the virus.
Doctors recommend that both boys and girls be vaccinated against HPV around the age of 12.
They recommend routine screening for cervical cancer, regardless of your sexual history. Tests used to check for cervical cancer include Pap test and HPV test. Your gynecologist can help you figure out if one or both of these tests are best for you.
So, no matter if you have had sexual intercourse or not, it is recommended that you have a check-up, although doctors say that in these cases and in your early 20s the chances of problems of this kind are slim.
Burimi: Mayo Clinic
